As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ class of 2024, Vincent Guarino, operations management and marketing double major from West Caldwell, New Jersey has thoroughly demonstrated his determination and dedication during his time at UD.
Guarino was nominated for this series by Senior Instructor of Operations Management Susan Murphy and Assistant Professor of Operations Management Caroline Swift.
Murphy says, “If I could clone Vince, I would. He is an ideal student and leader within the college. I have now had him in classes 3x, and can share that he is intellectually curious, thorough, resourceful, a self-starter, and dedicated to our major. He has excelled in classwork, has encouraged team members and classmates to perform, and has demonstrated leadership traits that are uncommon among students these days. Vince is not only a solid student, he is on the Operations Management Association (OMA) executive board, and has represented the group in planning efforts with area professional organizations. A+ candidate for this award.”
Swift says, “Vin is such a wonderful student and human being. His classroom performance is notable, of course. But his uplifting attitude and natural inclination to leadership are what make him shine. He is deeply involved with numerous organizations on campus, and has most impressed me by carrying the operations management RSO for the past year. He strikes a perfect balance between setting realistic goals and dreaming big. If every organization were made of people with Vincent’s skills, attitude, and dedication, the world would be phenomenal.”
In this profile, Guarino shares his favorite UD memories, how he has changed during his time at UD and his plans following graduation.
Lerner: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Guarino: I believe I’ve experienced significant growth, both professionally and personally since the start of my journey at UD.When beginning at UD there were a lot of unknowns, including what I wanted to study, the COVID-19 pandemic, and what I wanted to accomplish after my four years. Foremost, I gained experience in overcoming obstacles. I developed individuality, effective networking techniques, and established strong relationships with my professors and peers. Most importantly, I learned to set goals for myself and exceed them, while encouraging others to also exceed their potential. By the end of my four years at UD I have become very involved on campus and it has impacted me in various ways as I hope I did to others. Above all, from the friendships, connections, and education I have gained I have transformed into the best version of myself. There is no better journey I would rather have had than spending my last four years at UD.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Guarino: During my college experience, I encountered various challenges, such as managing time effectively, balancing academic and personal commitments, and adapting to new environments. However, the most obvious challenge I faced was the COVID-19 pandemic. My first semester of college was completely virtual, in a world we were all still trying to get used to. The next thing I knew I was moving onto campus and adapting to a new environment. I overcame such challenges through perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. Even when times were tough I kept reminding myself the reason I was fulfilling this journey. Another challenge I faced during my college experience was putting myself out there and pushing myself to get involved. It was a struggle at first, but pushing myself outside my comfort zone allowed me to overcome multiple challenges and thrive in my college journey.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Guarino: My two favorite signature UD experiences were joining my fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha and being involved with UDance. These experiences have impacted me more than words can explain. Being the Philanthropy Chair and UDance Representative for Pi Kappa Alpha will forever be some of my favorite memories. Being part of a brotherhood has given me a sense of community like no other. Through the good and bad times we were always there for each other. In addition, the UDance community is outstanding. A group of students organizing a day of fundraising and hard efforts throughout the year is breathtaking. I have experienced the day of UDance three times and believe it is one of the most compassionate events I have ever attended. Though these are only two of my favorite experiences they have really transformed me throughout my college journey.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Guarino: The professors and advisors at UD were great! However, my two professors Susan Murphy and Caroline Swift have made a huge impact on my UD experience. Professor Murphy has encouraged me to push myself academically and is a professor that really helps you learn. In addition, Professor Murphy helps her students inside and outside of the classroom; whether it is finding a job after graduation or getting involved she is always willing to help. Professor Swift has been there for me through all of my ups and down in my last year of college. Nevertheless, she has always supported me and given me the confidence and tools to succeed. Both professors have inspired me to join the Operations Management Association where I held a seat on the executive board for two years. From their support I was able to successfully restructure the club and become president. I appreciate everything they have done for me and thank them for joining me on my college adventure.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Guarino: Being a “Lifelong Lerner” to me means utilizing the knowledge I’ve acquired over the past four years to create new and stimulating prospects for myself, my peers, and forthcoming Lerner graduates. A “Lifelong Lerner” sets good examples for those around them, helps others, and inspires fellow peers to get more involved and reach their full potential. I deeply appreciate the remarkable community of students and faculty who have rendered my UD journey. It is truly unforgettable and I will forever be part of the Blue Hen family!
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Guarino: The advice I would give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience is to get involved in the UD community as much as you can and to be open to every opportunity. Make every opportunity count and enjoy the process!
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Guarino: Following graduation I plan to spend some time at the beach with family and friends and soon after begin my career. I will be working in New York City for Nationwide, as a specialty underwriter.